§ 68. Brigadier-General SPEARSasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that American interests have purchased the share control of Gaumont-British, Limited, which owns, directly or indirectly, approximately 350 picture theatres, constituting the largest circuit of theatres in this country; and whether he proposes, in the national interest, to take steps to prevent this powerful means of propaganda remaining in foreign control?
66. Mr. CREECH JONESasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that proposals have been made that 300 of the principal cinemas in Britain are about to pass under the control of foreign interests; and whether he will consider some steps to safeguard the national interests in such development?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKI have no official information on the subject, but I have seen reports in the Press as to possible changes in the control of the Gaumont-British Picture Corporation. My right hon. Friend has noted the hon. Members' suggestions.